Cashew - Anacardium occidentale (Care, Characteristics, Distribution, Images)

Cashew

Also known as: Cashew Tree, Pomifera, Cajueiro, Cashew Apple

It may surprise you to know that cashew (Anacardium occidentale) is related to poison ivy, pistachio, and even mango! It is a tropical evergreen native to Brazil and produces a wood used to build shipping crates, boats, and charcoal. The resin in the shells of the fruits are used to make insecticides and plastics, so the nuts must be separated from the shells before being sold as food. Explorers from Portugal are responsible for introducing cashews to the outside world.

Scientific classification

Species

Cashew (Anacardium occidentale)

Maples, mangos, mahogany, citrus, and allies

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Tree

Plant Type

Summer, Fall

Bloom Time

All year round

Harvest Time

6 m to 14 m

Plant Height

20 m

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

1.2 mm

Flower Size

Green, Red, Yellow

Flower Color

Evergreen

Leaf type

Images of Cashew

Distribution of Cashew

Distribution Map

Cashew is native to the tropical regions of Central and South America, typically thriving in the area that encompasses parts of the Caribbean, the northern regions of South America, and Central America. It has been introduced extensively to various tropical and subtropical areas across continents like Africa, Asia, and Oceania, where it now grows in several countries across these regions.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Thickets, Sand dunes

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Flowering

Fruiting

Toxicity

Cashew is mildly toxic to humans. All parts are toxic and can cause gastrointestinal symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea upon ingestion. Skin irritation or allergic reactions occur via contact with sap. Awareness and caution are crucial to prevent accidental poisoning from consuming inedible parts of cashew.

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Care Guide for Cashew

Every 2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Cashew thrives in high humidity and regular rainfall, preferring consistent moisture without waterlogging. Watering every two weeks is ideal. As an outdoor plant in warmer climates, mulching helps retain soil moisture, promoting stable growth during hot periods.

Fertilize: Cashew thrives with high nitrogen fertilizers for optimum growth and fruiting. Use a balanced N-P-K blend quarterly during active growth, adjusting for response and local climate. Apply during cool periods and water thoroughly, taking care to avoid sap contact and follow recommended quantities to prevent damage.

Pruning: Cashew thrives with annual spring pruning, enhancing airflow and sunlight. Remove dead or overlapping branches to maintain shape and prevent pests, ultimately improving fruit production and overall health for a robust yield and longevity.

Propagation: Cashew propagation involves using semi-hardwood cuttings from healthy, disease-free plants. Maintain high humidity and warmth for root development, and consider rooting hormones for faster growth. Handle cuttings carefully and gradually acclimatize rooted plants to less controlled environments.

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